Beginning Farmer / Rancher Program

Financing for Beginning Farmers and Ranchers in Today's Economy

Download Presentations from the Workshop Held on June 16, 2009:
Working with Your Lender (PDF) | USDA Risk Management (PDF) | Value-Added Producer Grant (PDF)
The workshop held in Pasco, Washington, on 06/16/2009 was presented by Columbia Basin College, Northwest Farm Credit Services, USDA Farm Service Agency, USDA Risk Management Agency, USDA Rural Development, Washington State Department of Agriculture, Washington State Housing Finance Commission.
 

Background Information and Resources

• Cultivate the Soil: Resources for Beginning & Small-Scale Farmers & Ranchers in Washington State (PDF)
• Media Release: Beginning farmers purchase their first farms (PDF)

Loans are available up to a maximum of $469,200

• Land and improvements ($469,200 Max)
• New depreciable agricultural property/equipment ($125,000 Max)
• Used depreciable property/equipment ($62,500 Max)

Who is eligible?

Individuals or families who have not owned and operated a farm or ranch.  Or, those who have owned and operated a farm or ranch that was less than 30% of the county’s median farm size.  2007 Median Farm Size Chart (Word)

What about other requirements?

The borrower must directly manage and work the farm/ranch.  Off-farm income is okay.

What can be financed?

• Land Purchases
• Building Acquisition/Construction
• Agricultural Improvements
• Machinery and Equipment
• Animals for Breeding, Work, and Dairy

Download the Application

Download the Application (Word)  Important... Contact Wendy Knopp at Northwest Farm Credit Services prior to sending application or if you have questions about loan terms and qualifications: (509) 340-5476 or email wendy.knopp@farm-credit.com

Please contact Tia Peycheff at the Commission if you have questions concerning initial program eligibility for the Beginning Farmer/Rancher Program: (206) 287-4416 or (800) 767-4663 (toll free within WA) or email tia.peycheff@wshfc.org

If you require assistance downloading this form, please contact us at askusCP@wshfc.org or ask for Viet at 206-464-7139 or 800-767-4663 toll free in Washington State.

This page was modified on 6/25/2009.